Purchasing 3950X, seeking a motherboard tailored for particular applications
Purchasing 3950X, seeking a motherboard tailored for particular applications
I'm heading to Microcenter to collect the 3950X. I made a reservation for the morning of launch day. I need an X570 Mobo while I'm there, but I want one with a solid VRM that can handle continuous heavy use without direct airflow over it. The 3950X will be protected by a waterblock, and I plan to encode my DVD/Bluray Library into x265 for digitizing the entire collection. Because of the constant load, I'm searching for a high-quality VRM. At the same time, I don’t want to spend around $700 on a Mobo—I prefer an ATX model since it fits my gaming rig and provides space for the GPU and Vive Wireless PCI card.
For a machine that runs nonstop, you wouldn't really need to watercool it. If your loop encounters a problem, it might overheat and leak without you noticing. A bit of airflow around the VRM is also really helpful, even if it's just a small fan during continuous operation.
No air movement? Such as in a fully sealed metal enclosure? Even the most restrictive cases on Earth would have some airflow if you install fans. Consider using a well-designed case like FD Meshify C or Phanteks P400A. Generally, most X570 boards (except the smallest sub-ATX and budget MSI models) can handle minimal airflow. I’d suggest ASUS TUF or ASRock Taichi for better performance.
The setup runs without direct airflow, featuring a Corsair 570X with a 360 rad fan at the front and a 240 rad fan in the exhaust, while the rear has an EK Vardar. Noise levels remain reasonable given the living room setting. Front airflow is minimal between the Res and fan speed settings. Investing more for noticeable gains is acceptable, but I prefer avoiding expensive options like the Aurous Extreme at $700. The video from Der8auer makes me consider the Hero VIII, which matches expected temperatures and efficiency. Compared to the Extreme, it offers similar performance at half the cost. Previously, I looked at the Meg ACE, but its TUF value feels less appealing than what I need. The TUF is my backup if I can't find a better option, especially since I already built a 3900X for my office work—now cheaper at Microcenter after the discount. For the Taichi, I don’t like its appearance and it doesn’t match my future plans, which will likely involve a hardline conversion.
There are options for direct airflow, whether it's blowing on the VRM or drawing air away from it. Temperatures with any X570 model are acceptable. ASUS TUF reached 66°C in tests, leaving ample room for the R9 3950X's 250-300W draw. That's why I still think it's worth choosing the ASUS Crosshair VII over it.
Purchasing from Microcenter is better since the discount on Mobo makes it more affordable compared to buying online.